As daylight savings time approaches this Sunday March 11th, the Roseville Fire Department would like to remind you to take care of a very important task besides changing your clock. Change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

One of the most important fire safety devices for the home is the smoke detector. Most fatal fires occur at night. The job of your smoke detector is to protect you and your family from fires while you are asleep. A working smoke detector will provide the early warning that can increase your chances of surviving a fire by 50 percent.

The Roseville Fire Department offers the following information for installing and maintaining smoke detectors:

Install smoke detectors in hallways that lead to sleeping areas, basements and each additional level of your home. Call the fire department if you are unsure about placement.

Smoke detectors should be mounted on the ceiling four (4) inches from the walls. Do not install near draft areas (windows, vents).

Keep your smoke detector working. Change the batteries and vacuum at least once a year. Dust and cobwebs can impair sensitivity.

Test your smoke detector monthly. To do this, press the battery test button on the front of the smoke detector. If a high pitch sound is heard, the battery is working properly.

Fire won’t wait – Plan your escape! Crawl low in smoke. You’ve got to have a plan. Prepare and practice an escape plan including a meeting place outside. The meeting place should be far enough from the house to ensure safety from the fire.

Protect yourself and your family from fire. Install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. For further information on smoke detectors or other fire safety needs contact the Roseville Fire Department at 774-5800.